ITU, Qualcomm enhance mobile service for emergencies

Global telecommunications regulator, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is partnering with Qualcomm Incorporated to enhance emergency communications for disaster preparedness and to coordinate relief activities in the aftermath of a disaster.

This deal was cemented with the agreement reached last week between the two, which enables Qualcomm to donate to ITU a Qualcomm Deployable Base Station (QDBS) with a total estimated value of about USD 500,000, about.

Director, ITU’s Telecommunication Development Bureau, Mr. Sami Al Basheer, said, the base station will enhance ITU’s capacity in deploying mobile telecommunications to assist countries in preparing for disaster and in strengthening response and recovery mechanisms.

Based on 3G Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) technology, QDBS is a compact, quickly deployable and easy to operate mobile solution for providing first-responder communications, which is reliable, responsive and complete cellular system with the ability to forward-deployed to supply vital wireless communications.

“We are delighted by this alliance with one of our development Sector Members. QDBS brings with it the wireless technology that is so essential in bridging the telecommunication gap when terrestrial networks are knocked out by natural disasters,” he said.

A press statement made available to ITRealms Online and endorsed by the Chief, Media Relations and Public Information at ITU, Mr. Sanjay Acharya, and Ms. Tina Asmar of Qualcomm Corporate Communications, pointed out that Qualcomm provides wireless solutions that are relevant and critical in responding to disasters, especially through its Wireless Reach initiative, thus it works with organizations such as ITU to bring wireless technology to those who need it most.

The Senior Director, International Government Affairs at Qualcomm, Shawn A. Covell, was quoted as expressing delight over the partnership and promises that they would continue to provide a useful system to enhance their emergency communications programme.

“Wireless Reach is fortunate to have the opportunity to collaborate with ITU in order to help make a difference when a disaster strikes,” Covell said.

ITRealms Online recalls that Qualcomm believes access to advanced wireless voice and data services would improve people’s lives. Qualcomm’s Wireless Reach initiative supports programmes and solutions that bring the benefits of connectivity to developing communities globally. By working with partners, Wireless Reach projects create new ways for people to communicate, learn, access health care and reach global markets.

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